Several U.S. governors threatening to block efforts to allow Syrian refugees into their states

In the aftermath of Friday's terrorist attacks in Paris, several U.S. governors are threatening to block efforts to allow Syrian refugees into their states. But as WESH 2's Chris Hush (@ChrisHushWESH) explains, the process to do that -- isn't that easy.

Gov. Scott wants Congress to block Syrian refugee resettlement

Several U.S. governors threatening to block efforts to allow Syrian refugees into their states

In the aftermath of Friday's terrorist attacks in Paris, several U.S. governors are threatening to block efforts to allow Syrian refugees into their states.

More than a dozen state governors are vowing not to support relocation efforts of Syrian refugees to their states. That includes Gov. Rick Scott, who sent a letter to Congress asking for aggressive action against President Obama's plan to use federal funds to relocate thousands of refugees to the United States, citing national security risks.

"Any governor that signs an executive order attempting to dictate immigration law is basically void. It has no legal power whatsoever," said WESH 2 News legal analyst Richard Hornsby.

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Hornsby said there's very little a governor can do about decisions made in Washington about refugees.

On Monday, Louisiana Republican Gov. Bobby Jindal sent out a Tweet saying he signed an executive order instructing state agencies to stop the relocation of Syrian refugees to his state.

Hornsby said the only power a governor has on the issue is to prohibit state funds from being used.

"They go through a lot of intense screening through the FBI, through the Department of Justice and Homeland Security," said Rasha Mubarek, with CAIR Florida.

Members of the American Muslim community, like Mubarak, understand the concern after an attacker in Paris was found with a Syrian passport. But Mubarak and supporters said the United States already has an extensive security process.

Despite calls from politicians around the country, President Obama is moving forward with plans to accept about 10,000 refugees from Syria over the next year.